PEOPLE

​The phrase, “Let me continue to serve you…” is written on the back of Bernard Anthony Diggs business card and it sums up his philosophy toward both life and business perfectly. Bernard is a Realtor leading the New Diggs Team with Florida Homes Realty & Mortgage. But what sets him apart is the fact that he is also a Soldier, having served in the United States Navy Active Duty from 2001-2006, and as an Active Reservist from 2007 through the present. “I joined the U.S. NAVY to make a difference for my country and to serve. I am proud of the people who served before me, those that have served alongside, and all who will serve after me.” Working as an Aircrew member flying P-3 airplanes Bernard traveled the world through deployments. It is a valuable asset to military personnel seeking to buy or sell their home to have someone who understands the unique situations they face. Having lived the life of a soldier he understands how challenging it is to move frequently. He understands what military families are going through and how hard they work for our country. Like Fathers & Mothers who sacrifice time with their families and parents who stay home alone with the children while one spouse is deployed. Bernard himself was not there when his own daughter was born because he was serving our country. As a Realtor, he has made it his mission to help families relocate seamlessly. He has a passion for helping families find new homes or sell existing homes in St. Johns & Jacksonville. Bernard has assisted countless military men and women in finding new homes. Sometimes this means working with military clients who are not even in the country and have only their spouses to rely

The New Diggs Team at a Lennar model home in Shearwater

​ It requires him to look out for them in ways that go beyond the typical real estate service. He often works directly with local builders to ensure a smooth transition for soldiers and their families moving into the community, often going the extra mile. When asked about a story that really moved him he tells about a recent couple he worked with to find their dream home. After a ten-month long search, they finally found the perfect home and a surprise marriage proposal was planned on the final walk through. Of course, Bernard was thrilled for the couple and was there to help make it happen, and even video the moment for them. Another couple purchased a new construction home but the home had some major last minute issues that needed to be addressed prior to closing. Bernard arranged for the builder to cover the unexpected costs of a temporary place to live while the home was completed. Needless to say, the family was grateful. He also gives back to his fellow brothers and sisters in the military by providing educational workshops at both NAS Jax and Mayport basses where he provides valuable information about the home buying process. He is actively involved in the non-profit organization Hope for The Warrior, an organization that provides comprehensive support programs for service members, veterans, and military families that are focused on transition, health and wellness, peer engagement, and connections to community resources. Bernard’s Broker James Angelo of Florida Homes Realty and Mortgage is his mentor, providing invaluable life and business lessons. James has taught Bernard how to use past success and failures to shape him in the future. James has guided Bernard’s thinking to push beyond what is in front of him, and reach for limitless success. James has been a tremendous mentor, friend, and counselor aiding Bernard’s rapid accomplishments in real estate. Through his direction Bernard has become one of the top selling real estate agents at FHRM, which consists of over 500 realtors. Traveling around the world through deployments has allowed Bernard to build an understanding and respect for diverse populations and cultures which has proven beneficial to his real estate business. He is happily married to his wife Niegen who he says is his hero. “Watching her as a mother is a true inspiration of power, strength, and sacrifice that continues to encourage me”. Bernard enjoys his time off playing basketball at his community court, reading business and real estate best sellers, listening to Ted Talks, but mostly supporting the Jacksonville Jaguars by attending all season games! Although his house is located in St. Johns and his clientele consists of families from all surrounding communities, a piece of his heart and business drive remains for our service men and women who pay the ultimate sacrifice in serving our country.

St. Johns Magazine is a fun and friendly resource guide connecting the growing communities of northern St. Johns. We focus on the positive aspects of life with entertaining features and articles promoting local businesses, people, places and events!

St. Johns Magazine is published monthly and distributed free of charge to select homes in northern St. Johns, Florida